Is Ayer, Massachusetts a Good Place to Live?
Before diving into the housing market in Ayer, it's important to consider the overall quality of life in the area. Ayer is a small town in Middlesex County with a population of around 7,500 people. It's located about 37 miles northwest of Boston, making it a great option for those who work in the city but want to live in a quieter, more affordable area.
One of the biggest draws of Ayer is its excellent schools. The Ayer Shirley Regional School District consistently ranks highly in statewide rankings, with a student-to-teacher ratio of just 13:1. Additionally, Ayer is home to a variety of parks and recreational facilities, including the popular Sandy Pond Beach.
Another benefit of living in Ayer is its relatively low crime rate. According to data from NeighborhoodScout, Ayer has a crime rate that is lower than 42% of all other cities and towns in the US.
What is the Tax Rate in Ayer, MA?
When buying a home, it's important to consider the associated property taxes. In Ayer, the current property tax rate is $17.42 per $1,000 of assessed value. For a home with an assessed value of $300,000, this would result in an annual property tax bill of $5,226.
It's worth noting that property tax rates can vary significantly depending on the town and state you're in. However, Ayer's property tax rate is relatively low compared to other towns in Massachusetts.
What is the History of Ayer, MA?
Ayer has a rich history dating back to the early 18th century. Originally inhabited by the Nashaway Native American tribe, the area was settled by Europeans in the early 1700s. The town was officially incorporated in 1871 and named after Dr. James Cook Ayer, a wealthy patent medicine manufacturer who donated funds to establish the town's first public library.
Throughout its history, Ayer has been an important transportation hub. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the town was a major railroad junction, with multiple lines passing through the area. Today, Ayer is home to the Ayer station on the MBTA commuter rail, which provides easy access to Boston and other nearby cities.
Housing Market in Ayer, MA
Now that we've covered some of the basics about Ayer, let's take a closer look at the housing market in the area. As of the time of writing, the median home value in Ayer is $516,000, which is slightly lower than the Massachusetts statewide median of $545,516 (according to Zillow).
One of the biggest draws of Ayer's housing market is its affordability. Compared to other towns in Massachusetts, Ayer offers relatively affordable housing options, with a variety of single-family homes, condos, and townhouses available at a range of price points.
Another benefit of buying a home in Ayer is the town's proximity to major highways and transportation options. Ayer is located near several major highways, including Route 2 and Route 495, making it easy to commute to Boston and other nearby cities. Additionally, the MBTA commuter rail provides easy access to Boston and other towns in the area.
